If you’re starting dance training or considering a performing arts course, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is what is ballet? And why is it so central to dance education? Ballet is more than a style of dance; it’s a foundational technique that underpins many other movement forms, from contemporary and jazz to musical theatre and commercial performance. Understanding what ballet is, where it comes from, and how it works will help you get far more out of your classes. What Is Ballet? A Brief History Ballet originated in the Italian Renaissance courts of the 15th century before developing further in France and Russia. Over time, it evolved from formal court entertainment into a highly structured theatrical art form with codified steps, positions, and techniques. By the 19th century, classical ballet as we know it today had taken shape, emphasising grace, precision, musicality, and storytelling through movement. While modern ballet training has adapted to contemporary bodies and performance styles, the core principles remain deeply rooted in this tradition. So, what is ballet today? It’s a disciplined yet expressive movement language that trains the body to move efficiently, clearly, and artistically. Core Ballet Technique Explained When students ask what ballet technique is, they’re usually referring to the physical principles that guide how dancers move. These principles are taught consistently across beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Turnout Turnout refers to the outward rotation of the legs from the hip joints. It allows for a greater range of movement and stability, particularly in jumps and turns. Proper turnout is developed gradually and safely through technique classes, not forced. Alignment Alignment is about how the body stacks itself, head over shoulders, shoulders over hips, hips over feet. Good alignment supports balance, control, and injury prevention, making it a cornerstone of ballet training. Placement and Balance Ballet trains dancers to distribute weight efficiently through the feet while maintaining control through the core. This develops stability, coordination, and strength that transfers into all other dance styles. Port de Bras Port de bras refers to the carriage and movement of the arms. In ballet, arms are not decorative extras; they shape space, support balance, and contribute to musical expression. Together, these elements answer a key part of what ballet is: a system that builds strength, coordination, flexibility, and expressive clarity. Essential Ballet Vocabulary You’ll Hear in Class Another important part of understanding what ballet is involves learning its language. Ballet terminology is traditionally taught in French, and you’ll hear these terms regularly in class: Plié – bending of the knees Tendu – stretching the foot along the floor Relevé – rising onto the balls of the feet Arabesque – standing on one leg with the other extended behind Pirouette – a controlled turn on one leg Jeté – a jump from one foot to the other Adagio – slow, sustained movements Allegro – fast, lively steps and jumps Learning this vocabulary helps dancers respond quickly in class and understand choreography without constant explanation. Why Ballet Is So Important for Students A common question is what ballet’s role is in broader dance training? Ballet develops discipline, musical awareness, body control, and movement efficiency. Even dancers who don’t pursue classical ballet professionally benefit from its structure. Ballet: Improves posture and strength Builds coordination and balance Encourages focus and mental discipline Supports longevity and injury prevention Enhances performance quality across styles That’s why ballet remains a core part of training in dance schools, musical theatre programmes, and conservatoires. What Is Ballet in Modern Training? Today, ballet is taught with a strong emphasis on safe practice, anatomical understanding, and individual development. Teachers adapt techniques to support different body types and career goals while preserving the integrity of the form. In modern training environments, ballet isn’t about perfection; it’s about building a reliable physical foundation that supports creativity, expression, and professional growth. Whether you’re stepping into your first class or continuing advanced training, understanding ballet gives you a powerful toolset that will support your journey as a dancer and performer.